Natural Progesterone

Natural Progesterone is derived from natural sources, such as plants. Many health food stores and Internet sites sell Natural Progesterone compounds, or plants they are derived from such as wild yams, soy and fenugreek, with various claims to reduce menopausal symptoms. However, Progesterone from these plants is actually in a precursor form called diosgenin. It needs to be metabolized into active Progesterone before it exerts any of its hormonal effects. Human beings are unable to convert diosgenin into active progesterone. However, this conversion can take place in the laboratory, and the resulting active compound is still marketed as natural progesterone.

It is thought that ‘Natural’ Progesterone, or plant-derived diosgenin that is activated in a laboratory, is safer than synthetically produced Progesterone compounds. These synthetic compounds may interfere with steroid hormone production and with glucose metabolism.

Current scientific knowledge suggests Natural Progesterone is ineffective for its most widely prescribed use- treatment of menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. The sale of Natural Progesterone compounds is unregulated, which also raises concerns about standardization, contamination and safety. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women share the details of any natural treatments they are taking with their physician. This can help a physician monitor their patient for side effects, including toxicity, and avoid prescribing other treatments that may lead to adverse interactions.

Diosgenin itself may have some potential uses to treat other conditions in the future. Recent laboratory research suggests that diosgenin may inhibit the growth of certain cells, lining joint cavities in humans, which are associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Other research suggests diosgenin may have a protective effect by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells involved in colon cancer, some types of human leukemia, and a bone cancer called osteosarcoma. While promising, these findings are the subject of additional research and do not prove that diosgenin is indeed beneficial in treating these conditions.